New York is beginning to open back up and we have seen a number of chapters begin to return to regular events and activities. I wanted to take a few minutes to reiterate our commitment to the safety and protection of all of our members.
1. Best practices for COVID19 remain in place. You can find those delineated here.
Given the vast size of our state and how areas respond differently local advisory councils are entrusted to make the best decision about in-person or virtual meetings. I have seen some chapters doing a ‘hybrid’ model where some young men are on zoom and some are physically present. I cannot stress enough: If there’s something holding you back or you have a question or concern please let me know.
2. Remember that best practices for youth protection exist both virtual and with in-person.
- We have a very clear zero tolerance policy: “New York DeMolay enforces a Zero Tolerance Policy with regard to the use of alcohol, illegal drugs, weapons, illegal tobacco use including vaping, hazing, bullying, or any physical, verbal, sexual, or emotional abuse of any kind at any DeMolay function. This policy applies to Active DeMolays, Members of Squires, Sweethearts, adult volunteers and guests of New York DeMolay, or its subordinate units. Violations of risk management, youth protection, or prohibited substance policies will result in disciplinary measures up to and including suspension or expulsion consistent with the Rules and Regulations of DeMolay International.”
https://nydemolay.net/ss/files/misc/Zero_tolerance_6-26-20.pdf
- We have a code of conduct policy for our adult volunteers that you may be found here:
https://nydemolay.net/ss/files/misc/Code%20of%20Conduct%20as%20a%20DeMolay%20Advisor.pdf
- We have a brotherhood contract that you should review annually with the members of your chapter. If they have suggestions on additions or changes please let me know.
https://www.nydemolay.net/en/page.php?id=969
3. Admission to our chapter meetings, whether in person or virtual, should be restricted to:
(A) DeMolays
(B) Parents of DeMolays
(C) Registered Adult Volunteers
(D) Members of our Masonic Family in Good standing
(E) Invited guests age 21 or older, like if there is a guest speaker or something.
With all of the virtual meetings you should visually confirm that someone is who they say they. Ideally through video. If that’s not possible, matching the phone number.
Advisory councils have the right to exclude any objectionable person. If your advisory council does this please send me a note explaining what, who, when, why, and where.
4. In general with youth protection:
- Two deep advising always.
- 1 to 5 ratio of DeMolays to registered adult volunteers
- Absolutely no 1 on 1s.
- Annual viewing of the Youth Protection Video
- Parents/Guardians have an absolute right to be present at any activity their child is attending.
5. See also our SOP and DI's FAQs here